Human rights abuses, including unlawful arrests and extended detentions, continue to be a concern in Kigezi sub-region despite assurances from law enforcement agencies that they operate within legal limits.
During a dialogue organized by Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO) at White Horse Inn in Kabale District, in partnership with Defend Defenders Uganda, civil society actors, legal practitioners, law enforcement officers, and members of the public discussed persistent human rights issues in police and prison facilities.
Lawyer Jennifer Atuheire from FIDA Uganda highlighted several violations reported across the sub-region, including torture, illegal arrests, and detention beyond the legal 48-hour period. She emphasized the need for continuous training for security personnel.
She emphasized the need for security officers to enroll for regular refresher courses on human rights and constant reminders of their power limitations while executing their legal mandates.
CUE IN ATUHEIRE…..ON ILLEGAL DETENTIONS…..ENG//
The Kigezi Regional Police Officer in Charge of Legal and Human Rights, ASP Arnold Ndagije, acknowledged that some officers may operate outside the law but urged the public to report any abuses through official channels.
He noted that the Police Code of Conduct clearly stipulates the actions to be taken against officers who misbehave.
The Superintendent of Prisons and Officer in Charge of Ndorwa Government Prison, Julius Kisembo, defended his facility, asserting that inmates are legally committed by competent courts and that human rights committees monitor compliance.
CUE IN KISEMBO…..ON HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEES……ENG//
Similarly, I.P. Margret Kamiranga from Kabale Central Police Station’s Family and Child Protection Unit stated that the station adheres to the 48-hour detention rule, noting exceptions only in high-profile or complex cases.
LOSCO’s Head of Advocacy, Honest Kyomugisha, stressed that human rights and civic competence remain central to the organization’s work. She announced that future dialogues will review the implementation of action points agreed upon by participants.
“Human rights advocacy is key to our work. We will continue engaging communities and monitoring the implementation of resolutions from these dialogues,” Kyomugisha said.
The dialogue highlighted a persistent gap between Uganda’s human rights framework and its implementation at detention facilities, underscoring the need for vigilance, accountability, and ongoing public engagement.
